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If you require assistance with setting up a data recovery case, or have any additional questions, please
contact one of our qualified recovery specialists toll-free at 1-800-388-388-1266

We are continuing to offer our data recovery services during the COVID-19 pandemic.As part of our commitment to limiting the spread of the virus, we encourage you to ship your media directly to our lab instead of visiting a drop-off location.

How to Repair a Hard Drive

If you find yourself needing to learn how to fix a hard drive, it can be overwhelming at first. People who are not technically inclined can be intimidated by the idea of physical hard drive repair, but it is worth a try if you are comfortable with the idea. Remember, as long as you do not damage the platters on your hard drive, then one of our certified experts can retrieve your data for you.

Attempting to fix your own hard drive is not nearly as difficult as you may think.

Follow these simple steps to self-diagnose common mechanical problems with standard hard drives.

Remove the Protective Case

The first step to any hard drive repair job is to remove the protective case on your computer. If you get stuck, use your smartphone to go online and find instructions on how to remove the case. We are always surprised at how complex many computer owners think their cases are, which makes them even more relieved to find out that computer cases were designed to be durable and easy to take apart.

Check Your Drive Connections

Over time, the cables connected to your hard drive can come loose and give the illusion that your drive is damaged. Every hard drive has a power cable and a data connection cable plugged into the back of it. If you apply a slight amount of pressure to each plug, you will be able to tell right away if those plugs were loose or not.

If the cables click back into place, then turn your computer on to see if it works. If it works, then shut down the computer and put the case back together because you are done. If it doesn't work, then let's move on to the next step.

Look Over the Circuit Board

It is relatively easy to tell if the circuit board on your hard drive is damaged or not. If you see burn spots or areas where small components are missing, then your board has been damaged. If you use a magnifying glass, you can see any damage that may have occurred on your hard drive's circuit board.

If you see damage to the circuit board, then call one of our professional technicians and get a free quote on recovering your data. When your board is damaged, there is little hope of physical hard drive repair. At that point, it is best to get your data removed and have a technician install a new hard drive for you.

Make Sure It Isn't the Computer

Put your computer back together and turn it on. Watch your screen and look for a message that will tell you how to access your computer's BIOS. The process usually involves pressing one of your function keys, but you have to be quick because you only have a second or two before Windows starts up.

Once you have your BIOS screen up, look to see if your computer is recognizing your drive at all. Sometimes a computer cable can go bad and that is what is making it appear as though your hard drive is damaged. If your computer is not recognizing your hard drive, then try replacing the cable. If that does not work, then it is time to call in the professionals.

Call Us to Professionally Repair Your Hard Drive

There are several delicate parts in your hard drive and, when in doubt, we do not recommend opening the drive to repair it, especially if it contains important data. Our experts know how to fix a hard drive and we would be more than happy to give you a free quote on what it would cost to have your drive repaired in our fully-equipped lab.